2.9k views
1 vote
Besides the subject matter, what else tends to make for a difference between parody and satire?

User Gthm
by
8.3k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The main difference between parody and satire lies in their intent and technique; parody uses mimicry for humor, while satire employs irony, wit, and exaggeration to critique societal issues, often with a more subtle approach.

Step-by-step explanation:

Besides the subject matter, what tends to make a difference between parody and satire is primarily their intent and technique. A parody imitates the style or character of a work for comic effect or ridicule. It requires an element of mimicry and is more straightforward in its humorous or mocking approach. On the other hand, satire is more subtle and often employs irony, exaggeration, and wit to critique and provoke thought about societal norms and deficiencies. Unlike parody, satire aims not just to amuse but also to stimulate reflection and encourage change.

Writers must skillfully balance humor with their message, as too much levity can dilute the critical commentary within a satirical work. As such, a satirical narrative often involves a credible context and may utilize a naive narrator to provide an 'objective' view that gradually reveals the criticism inherent in the subject being addressed.

User Amitay Nachmani
by
7.9k points